Former F1 boss warns Hamilton to CANCEL Ferrari contract because of…read more
Former Formula 1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone has voiced concerns over Lewis Hamilton’s potential move to Ferrari, advising the seven-time world champion to consider stepping away from F1 altogether rather than taking on this new challenge. Rumors of Hamilton’s Ferrari contract, slated for 2025, surfaced before the start of the 2024 season, sparking heated discussions about his future in the sport.
Throughout this season, Hamilton has continued driving for Mercedes, all while anticipating his eventual departure, which has reportedly impacted his morale. Mercedes’ inconsistencies have frustrated him, especially as he has struggled to keep up with his teammate, George Russell, in qualifying. Russell has had a more competitive season overall, outpacing Hamilton in the drivers’ standings, which is an unfamiliar position for the veteran driver. Hamilton’s recent struggles at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where he finished 11th in the sprint and 10th in the main race after qualifying 12th and 16th, respectively, were further reminders of his challenging season. His comment about needing a “holiday” following the race has been taken by some as a hint at a longer break or even a potential rethinking of his Ferrari plans.
Ecclestone suggests that Hamilton might be better off retiring now rather than risking an underwhelming stint with Ferrari, questioning if the sacrifices—financial and personal—are worth it at this stage in his career. He expressed doubts about whether Ferrari’s bonus clauses in Hamilton’s contract would truly benefit the driver or merely serve as motivational tools. Reportedly, Ferrari chairman John Elkann was particularly eager to sign Hamilton, viewing the acquisition as a prestigious move for the team. However, with Hamilton’s recent performance struggles, Ecclestone hinted that Elkann’s enthusiasm for the deal might be fading.
“Lewis should go away and do something else, and do a good job at it,” Ecclestone advised, suggesting that Hamilton might find fulfillment in other pursuits beyond F1. Ecclestone, known for his outspoken views, also pointed to Hamilton’s previous remarks encouraging the older generation to step back from the sport. As Hamilton approaches 40, Ecclestone implied that he might now fall into that category.
Currently, Hamilton sits in seventh place in the drivers’ standings, a position far removed from his years as a consistent championship contender. With his Ferrari switch on the horizon, Ecclestone’s comments add further fuel to the speculation over whether this next phase in Hamilton’s career will materialize—or if he will opt to walk away from F1 on his own terms.
